Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health

Description

A clinical geneticist is a doctor with specialist training in diagnosing and treating genetic conditions or disorders such as cystic fibrosis and Huntington’s disease. Clinical geneticists can help people who are affected by, or at risk of, inherited conditions to make informed health choices.

Services provided

  • Diagnosis of genetic conditions and disorders
  • Gene testing
  • Genetic counselling
  • Screening newborn babies and second trimester fetuses for selected genetic conditions

Eligibility

You need a referral from a doctor to see a clinical geneticist.

How to access

Ask your doctor about how to make an appointment with your clinical geneticist.

Costs

The cost of clinical genetics services varies depending on the provider. Contact the service before you attend if you would like more information about cost.

Medicare
Clinical genetic services may be partly or fully covered by Medicare.

Profile

Sector

Conventional healthcare

Regulation

Regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Agency (AHPRA).

Registration

Clinical geneticists must be registered through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), with the Medical Board of Australia.

Minimum qualifications

The minimum education requirement for a clinical geneticist is Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.

Tip

  • Take results of any tests with you (such as x-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs).
  • Write down a list of questions to ask while you’re there.